Dutch newspaper Het Laatste is reporting that Arsenal have a greed a fee for Belgium centre half Thomas Vermaelen with Ajax. The fee is reportedly in the region of £10 million. The newspaper is saying that the player has agreed a four year contract with Arsenal.

As yet there is no confirmation on either club’s website nor from the player. This is no surprise as he is currently away with Belgium and until he has a medical at Arsenal nothing is for certain.

There are conflicting reports that claim he has not yet agreed personal terms, but this is probably a confusion due to the player not being readily available fro a medical.

When this is confirmed it will be great news for Arsenal and will show Arsene’s intent in getting his new players early this season, instead of waiting until August. Vermaelen will add some steel to the heart of the defence.

Personal Details

Date of birth November 14, 1985

Place of birth Kapellen, Belgium

Height 1.80 m (5 ft 11 in)

1999-2003 Germinal Ekeren

2003-2009 Ajax

Senior career

Ajax 85 appearance; 6 goals

RKC Waalwijk (loan) 13 appearances 2 goals

National team

Belgium 21 caps